Meaning of Word
Precarious refers to something that is dangerous, unstable, or uncertain, typically due to being in a risky or vulnerable position.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- Dangerously unstable or likely to fall or fail.
- Dependent on uncertain conditions or factors, often implying risk or unpredictability.
- Describing a situation that is unsafe or lacking security.
History and Origin
The word precarious comes from the Latin word precarious, which means “obtained by prayer or begging” and later came to imply something that is uncertain or reliant on the will of others. It evolved in English during the 17th century to describe situations or conditions that were unstable or dependent on chance.
Detailed Explanation
Precarious is commonly used to describe situations, positions, or conditions that are frail, risky, or vulnerable to change, often in a dangerous or harmful way. A precarious situation may involve the potential for harm or loss, especially if the situation is not managed or altered. It is often used to indicate that something or someone is in a state where the outcome is uncertain, and stability or safety is not guaranteed. In general, it refers to anything that is insecure or exposed to danger due to a lack of control, support, or stability.
Example Sentences
- The hikers found themselves in a precarious position at the edge of the cliff.
- The company’s finances are in a precarious state due to poor management.
- His job security is precarious, as the company is downsizing.
- The precarious bridge swayed dangerously in the wind.
- They lived in a precarious neighborhood where crime rates were high.
- She was in a precarious health condition after the surgery.
- The situation at the border remains precarious, with tensions rising daily.
- The old ladder was in a precarious condition and could break at any moment.
- The precarious balance of the ecosystem was disturbed by the pollution.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Unstable: Lacking stability or the ability to remain in a steady state.
- Risky: Involving exposure to danger or the chance of failure.
- Insecure: Lacking confidence or certainty, especially regarding safety.
- Hazardous: Dangerous and likely to cause harm or damage.
- Perilous: Full of danger or risk, often leading to potential harm.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Vulnerable: Exposed to the possibility of harm, danger, or attack.
- Shaky: Unsteady, insecure, or likely to collapse.
- Dangerous: Involving risk of harm, injury, or loss.
- Uncertain: Not definite or fixed, leading to potential risk or instability.
- Precariousness: The quality of being unstable, insecure, or dangerous.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Fragile: Easily broken, damaged, or unstable.
- Wobbly: Unstable or unsteady, especially in terms of balance.
- Unsafe: Lacking safety or security, prone to causing harm or risk.
- Instability: The quality of being unstable or prone to change or collapse.
- Unreliable: Not dependable or certain, prone to failure or unpredictability.
Antonyms
- Stable: Firmly fixed or secure, not likely to change or collapse.
- Secure: Safe from danger or risk, protected from harm.
- Certain: Free from doubt, secure in outcome or result.
- Safe: Free from danger, harm, or risk.
- Reliable: Consistently dependable or trustworthy.